leverage

Definition

A force compounded by means of a lever rotating around a pivot.

Etymology

From lever + -age. The verb likely comes from martial arts/judo usage, where one would "use an opponent's leverage (i.e. their weight, height, centre of balance, etc.)" against them in order to defeat them.

Example Sentences

• "A crowbar uses leverage to pry nails out of wood."
• "In order to proportion the braking force to the weight carried by a wheel - a matter of special importance in the braking of wagons - variable leverage systems are now being introduced in which the end of one axle spring is linked to a control spring in the change-over valve, so automatically varying the leverage exerted by the brake-rod according to whether the wagon is full or empty."
• "Try using competitors’ prices for leverage in the negotiation."